Paul Cousins - The Cop
Meet Paul Cousins, our law enforcement officer on the tour, also known as ``The Cop.`` Paul has been a part of our cast since the very beginning and was an active member of Theatre Windsor for over 30 years. When he's not chasing down rum runners, he enjoys working in his shop where he creates unique furniture and other wooden items. You can check out his work by visiting his Facebook group page, Grandpops' Custom Creations.
Stephanie Jasmine Cragg - Yorkie
This performer brings understated energy to the role of ``Yorkie`` on the tour. Introducing Stephanie Jasmine Cragg.
Stephanie has been an actor in the Windsor community for over 20 years. She currently plays Yorkie in the Rum Runners and has played the Lady in White for the Spirits of Windsor bus tours (Encore Productions). Past community theatre roles include Dr. Elizabeth Foster in The Rhinoceros Woman and Apartment Giselle in Pry it from my Cold Dead Hands (Post Productions), Ariel in The Tempest (Theatre Intrigue), Moth in Loves Labour’s Lost (Ghost Light Players), Lisa Simpson in Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play (Korda), and the Owl in the Birds (Korda). She also voiced the characters of Bree and Evelyn in the Fantasy Fantasia podcast (Tall Tale Theatre).
Stephanie has been an actor in the Windsor community for over 20 years. She currently plays Yorkie in the Rum Runners and has played the Lady in White for the Spirits of Windsor bus tours (Encore Productions). Past community theatre roles include Dr. Elizabeth Foster in The Rhinoceros Woman and Apartment Giselle in Pry it from my Cold Dead Hands (Post Productions), Ariel in The Tempest (Theatre Intrigue), Moth in Loves Labour’s Lost (Ghost Light Players), Lisa Simpson in Mr. Burns: A Post-Electric Play (Korda), and the Owl in the Birds (Korda). She also voiced the characters of Bree and Evelyn in the Fantasy Fantasia podcast (Tall Tale Theatre).
Fay Lynn - Temperance Lady
Fay Lynn is a Windsor-Essex-based actor, director, producer, writer, set/prop designer/painter, etc. with more than twenty years of experience in and around the local performance industry. Fay is the Artistic Director of regional theatre company Post Productions (www.postproductionswindsor.ca), and the co-owner/manager of The Shadowbox Theatre -- an intimate blackbox performance venue on the corner of Howard and Shepherd. Through her work with Post Productions, she co-founded the annual Windsor-Essex Playwriting Contest in 2018, as well as the annual Edele Winnie Women's Monologue Competition in 2022. She grew up in the historic town of Amherstburg, Ontario and owes nearly everything good about her life to the supportive, creative, and kind nature of her family.
Maggie Marchenkowsky - Temperance Lady & Yorkie
Maggie Marchenkowsky takes on the role of the Temperance Lady on the tour.
Maggie is in her second season with the Rum Runner’s Tour and is thrilled to be part of this historic experience. As a native of Windsor, she is honoured to share the iconic history of her hometown. Maggie graduated from the BFA Acting program at the University of Windsor and is excited about what the future holds! Here's to keeping the stories alive!
Maggie is in her second season with the Rum Runner’s Tour and is thrilled to be part of this historic experience. As a native of Windsor, she is honoured to share the iconic history of her hometown. Maggie graduated from the BFA Acting program at the University of Windsor and is excited about what the future holds! Here's to keeping the stories alive!
Jennifer Prentice Diett - Tour Guide
Jennifer Prentice Diett is a true aficionado of Walkerville's history. As a former student of Walkerville Collegiate, her profound love for the area's history and the arts is unmatched. Jennifer has been involved with the Friends of Willistead, where she has been giving tours of the Manor, which is a testament to her dedication. She has also been teaching paint classes at local restaurants for 8 years, further demonstrating her commitment to the community. Her deep interest in the history of Windsor and its surrounding area has led her to her current role, where she is involved in developing a new walking tour. Stay tuned for more details.
Jim Reid - The Cop
Jim Reid made his debut in theater in 1992 with Windsor Light Music Theatre and has been passionate about it ever since. Some of his favorite previous roles include portraying Sir Lancelot in ``Spamalot``, Franz in ``The Producers``, Captain VonTrapp in ``The Sound of Music``, and Scrooge in ``A Christmas Carol``. More recently, he has also been involved in local film projects. Jim, a retired elementary school teacher, is happily married and busy helping to raise his twin grandsons.
Camryn S. Kingsley - Temperance Lady
Camryn S. Kingsley walked through the doors of a Windsor theatre one day in 2022 and never left the community. Her performances include ``Stuck``, ``Incredible Hospital``, and ``The Keeper`` with the ShadowBox Theatre. The role of Temperance Lady in the Rum Runners Tour came as a complete surprise to her, but she hopes that you'll think of her as a rather somber and conservative lady who would never let alcohol pass her lips. She didn't know much about Canadian history until she immigrated here, and has since fallen in love with the vibrant and thriving culture of the place. She's glad to be a part of this Tour and can't wait to see your face in the audience.
Shana Thibert - Temperance Lady
Since 2015, Shana Thibert has served as the Executive Director of Revolution Youth Theatre. She enjoys collaborating with the RYT kids to create entertaining and innovative family-friendly shows. In addition to her administrative role, Shana has performed on stage as an actor with several local theatre companies.
Her recent projects include working as a Set Manager and actor for the locally produced comedy series ``Upstaged`` and portraying The Temperance Woman on the Rum Runners tour.
Michelle Mainwaring - Bertha
The talented actress Michelle Mainwaring portrays the role of ``Bertha.`` Michelle is an award-winning actress recognized for her outstanding performance as Annie Wilkes in the stage production of Stephen King's ``Misery.`` With over 35 years of professional experience, she has amassed numerous stage, film, and radio credits. Michelle also leads her own group of actors and presents improv comedy shows regularly in Essex County.
Portraying the character of ``Bertha`` in the acclaimed Rum Runners tour for over 15 years has been a career highlight for Michelle. She takes genuine pleasure in entertaining her audiences.
Kirsten McMillan - Susie
We are delighted to introduce our next performer, Kirsten McMillan, who plays the remarkable role of ``Susie``. Kirsten is a talented local actress who can be regularly seen on network television in series such as Fear Thy Neighbor, Web of Lies, and Silent Witness. She has also performed on stage with Theatre Windsor, Purple Theatre, and Korda Productions. Kirsten has recently demonstrated her acting skills in television commercials, including a comedic spot for Ocean Spray. Kirsten is dedicated to bringing the character of ``Susie`` to life in the Rum Runners Tour.
Joe McParland - Leslie Spracklin
Meet Joe McParland, portraying ``The Fighting Parson`` Leslie Spracklin in The Rum Runners Tour. A lifelong Windsor resident, Joe graduated from Assumption College High School and holds an Honours B.A. in Philosophy and Psychology from the University of Western Ontario, as well as a Master’s Degree in Theology. After a successful 26-year career with the Canada Border Services Agency, Joe retired in 2015. Known for his distinctive voice, he has been a live on-air host for fifteen years, covering Windsor and Essex County Council Meetings for Cogeco YourTV.
Since retiring, Joe has been a monthly columnist and blogger for BIZ X Magazine.
Mark Lefebvre - Benny Da Weasel
Mark Lefebvre, known for his role as Benny ``Da Weasel``, has a BFA in Acting from the University of Windsor and a 35-year career as an artistic creator and educator. In 2023, he joined the RumRunners Tour, returned to Scarehouse Windsor, and will play Santa Claus. Notable theatre credits include the title role in the world premiere of Brebeuf's Ghost by Daniel David Moses, and Car Men.
He has collaborated extensively with choreographer Gina Lori Riley on original productions and a feature film. He has also worked on films by several directors and sung with a jazz ensemble. As a director, he has worked on various productions. Additionally, he has experience as a Therapeutic Clown Doctor, Busker/Stilt Guy, Multi-media Sculptor, Improv and Movement Teacher, and Board Volunteer.
He has collaborated extensively with choreographer Gina Lori Riley on original productions and a feature film. He has also worked on films by several directors and sung with a jazz ensemble. As a director, he has worked on various productions. Additionally, he has experience as a Therapeutic Clown Doctor, Busker/Stilt Guy, Multi-media Sculptor, Improv and Movement Teacher, and Board Volunteer.
Lexie Farrer - Susie, Yorkie & Tour Guide
Lexie Farrer takes on triple duty playing the roles of ``Yorkie`` ``Tour Guide`` and ``Susie``
She brings a wealth of acting experience to The Rum Runners Tour. She holds a BFA in Acting with a Minor in Musical Theatre from Wayne State University and has interned at Meadow Brook Theatre as their Acting/Administration intern. Lexie's performances with various local groups highlight her versatility. Her diverse acting credits include Agnes in She Kills Monsters, Little Red Riding Hood in Into The Woods, Sophie in Mamma Mia, Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Holly in The Wedding Singer.
She brings a wealth of acting experience to The Rum Runners Tour. She holds a BFA in Acting with a Minor in Musical Theatre from Wayne State University and has interned at Meadow Brook Theatre as their Acting/Administration intern. Lexie's performances with various local groups highlight her versatility. Her diverse acting credits include Agnes in She Kills Monsters, Little Red Riding Hood in Into The Woods, Sophie in Mamma Mia, Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Picture Show, and Holly in The Wedding Singer.
Victoria Moffat - Temperance Lady
Victoria began her acting career in grade 6 when she played the Wicked Witch of the West in her school's production of The Wizard of Oz. In high school, she joined the Dramatic Club, participating in the production crew and acting in several productions. Her acting career took a break when she got married and had children, but it resumed shortly before her retirement. She began acting with Theatre Windsor, performing in productions like It's a Wonderful Life, The Beverly Hillbillies, MASH, A Texas Belle, The Taming of the Shrew, and A Christmas Carol. She was invited to join the tour with the Rum Runners group as the Temperance Lady and has been with the group ever since. Victoria expresses her gratitude to Sue and Glen for inviting her to be part of the new Rum Runners production. As always, she dedicates all her performances to her wonderful six grandchildren.
Heath Camlis - Benny Da Weasel
Heath has been an active member of Windsor's acting scene since his first role in Theatre Intrigues' 2007 performance of ``Love Dat Mob``. Some of his most notable theatrical roles include Athos in ``The Three Musketeers``, various roles in Ghost Light Players' production of ``Hamlet``, and most recently, John in Windsor Feminist Theater's ``The Yellow Wallpaper``. Heath is also a founding member of Smog Town Films, and has created numerous films that have been featured in festivals across North America. He has notably participated 15 times in the Mark Boscariol 48-Hour Film Festival at the Windsor International Film Festival, and has received 7 best acting awards, among others. Heath is enthusiastic about continuing to contribute to Windsor's growing film and theatre industry for many years to come.
Paige Frankfurth - Bertha
Young at heart and passionate about all things music and art, Paige Frankfurth is thrilled to join the Rum Runners crew! With a background that shines with roles in productions like Oliver, Hello Dolly, The King and I, Top 40, Scrooge, It's a Wonderful Life, and Arsenic and Old Lace, Paige brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the stage.
Now stepping into the role of Bertha, she’s excited to celebrate the city's rich history with all of you. A heartfelt thank you to Encore Productions of Windsor for their unwavering belief in this city and its incredible people—bringing history to life has never been more rewarding. Don’t miss the magic—make sure to see it… We want you there!
The Band
Jim Walls - ``Fingers`` Piano Player
Jim Walls is excited to be a part of Encore Productions of Windsor's Rum Runners Tour. He has been involved with Encore Productions for almost fifteen years, starting as Tour Guide ``Benny The Weasel,`` then becoming the Musical Director for The Rum Runners Musical Review. He is currently performing as ``Fingers`` The Piano Player. Jim retired from a long career in education before joining Encore Productions. In addition, Jim can be seen performing in live theatre with companies such as Arts Collective Theatre, Windsor Light Music Theatre, The Artists Of Colour, Kingsville Players, and others. Jim enjoys playing all types of music, with jazz being his favourite, and he can be heard performing at various venues in and around the city of Windsor. One of Jim's greatest pleasures is performing as ``Fingers`` The Piano Player with Encore Productions' Rum Runners Tour. Both Jim and ``Fingers`` eagerly look forward to seeing you at our next tour.
Kent McMillan - ``Kneecaps`` Drummer
Kent is a graduate of the University of Windsor. He studied in Detroit, MI with Juilliard graduate Eugene Stewart and in Toronto with world-renowned drummer and teacher Peter Magadini. Earlier in his career, he performed with many well-known Rock, Top 40, and Country bands in the Detroit and Windsor area. He has also performed in many stage productions for well-known celebrities such as Della Reese, Sid Caesar, Carol Lawrence, Billy Eckstine, Mary Wilson, and Al Martino. In the jazz field, he has performed with Regina Carter, Marcus Belgrave, Ursula Walker, Earl Klugh, Alexander Zonjic, Bernie Senensky, among others. Kent has been a regular performer on CBC television and radio, and a recording session player in Detroit and Windsor. His credits include a performances in documentary films, including the New York Film Festival Award winner ``Wild Goose Jack,`` and writing/performing the percussion score for ``Scouts.``
Chris Nease - ``Elbows`` Bass Player
Christopher Stuart Nease spent two decades studying double bass with Max Janowski, Bob Gladstone, and Steve Sozunchuk. He later took up the electric bass to play rock music and met his future wife. Nease retired as an Occasional Teacher at elementary schools in GECDSB.
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